I am very sad that I have received several messages from members of the gay community in regards to distancing themselves from this project because of the Church's stand on gay rights. I personally do not support the church in their decision of their involvement in Prop 8 - I personally gave money to the No on 8 fund. It makes me sad that they did what they did, and equally as sad that individuals of the gay community are acting just as prejudice to Mormons in general because of this.

This project was intended to find common ground regardless of race, religion and lifestyle. For the gay community to black list this project is just as prejudice and intolerant as those who worked and voted to take away gay rights in California.

Men on a Mission is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In fact, I was excommunicated for spearheading this project. I personally know what it feels like to be attacked by an organization for expressing who I am. Please do not put salt on the wound by turning your back on this project because of your knee-jerk reactions.

Those who boycott us are picking a fight with the very people who are here to be your friend and build bridges and mend the gaps and hurt. The project is intended to be fun and light-hearted. We have appeared in many gay publications around the world and support all our brothers and sisters regardless of what makes us different. We celebrate the diversity in our world.

If you want to continue to fight to separate yourself from others based on stereotype and gross generalization, then you are just as guilty as those who voted to take away your rights in November.

Not all Mormons hate gays. Not all Mormons want to pick a fight with the gay community. Please, judge individuals by their actions, not an entire group by their leaders' actions.

The hate needs to stop on both sides of the fence.

Peace.

CHAD HARDY